ESBG vs SPY

ESBG vs SPY
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Quick Verdict

SPY has a lower expense ratio. SPY offers more diversification with 505 holdings.

Lower Fees: SPYHigher Returns: TiedMore Diversified: SPY

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricESBGSPYWinner
Expense Ratio0.95%0.09%
AUM$2M$821.1B
Dividend Yield1.12%1.01%
Holdings2505
YTD Return+5.84%+12.22%
1Y Return-+20.83%
3Y Return (annualized)-+21.70%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.98%
Volatility (annualized)-15.3%
Max Drawdown-18.8%-56.5%
Fund FamilyFirst Trust Portfolios (US)State Street Investment Management
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionNov 18, 2025Jan 22, 1993

ESBG vs SPY Performance

First Trust Enhanced Stocks, Bonds & Gold ETF (ESBG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and State Street SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is a ETF from State Street Investment Management. Year to date, ESBG is up 5.84% versus a gain of 12.22% for SPY.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -18.8% for ESBG and -56.5% for SPY. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

ESBG charges 0.95% per year while SPY charges 0.09%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $9 annually, a gap of $86 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ESBG currently yields 1.12% against 1.01% for SPY.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, ESBG or SPY?

ESBG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while SPY charges 0.09%. SPY is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $86 per year of difference.

Which pays a higher dividend, ESBG or SPY?

ESBG yields 1.12% while SPY yields 1.01%, so ESBG currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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